Mega-Gun Store & Firing Range Causes Controversy In Larimer County

LARIMER COUNTY, Colo. (CBS4) – The idea of a mega-gun store and firing range isn’t sitting well with some people in Larimer County.

The owners of a Fort Collins gun store want to build a 100,000 square foot facility near the interchange of Interstate 25 and Highway 34.

The idea of bringing a gun club near a Larimer County neighborhood has created a dividing line among the neighbors. Some have no problem with it while others are worried that a gun club nearby will tarnish the neighborhood.

“The Gun Institute” could be the location of the largest facility of its kind in the state, complete with retail gun sales, five indoor shooting ranges, and even a restaurant.

“This is going got be an upscale place to shoot your gun, learn gun safety and to be around people that know gun safety,” said John Mason, owner of USA Liberty Arms.

USA Liberty Arms has a contract to buy the plot of land in the 2534 development, just north of a residential neighborhood.

“The whole thing about the traffic and the flow of traffic is especially bothersome because there are a lot of small children in this neighborhood,” resident Clay Carter said.

Neighbors opposed to the plans say they’re worried about their safety.

“Some people feel uneasy about having the kids walk along there, catch the school bus and so forth, when people are arriving with their weapons,” Carter said.

But those in in favor of the facility are welcoming the gun club with open arms.

“The sensitive topic of guns is obviously to be considered by the neighbors, but it’s a safe facility, professional people,” resident Bruce Weber said.

The last step is getting approval from the city council. The meeting is scheduled next month. If they’re approved, USA Liberty Arms says they’ll break ground in September.